The baby was shifted to the neo-natal ICU after the family noticed that it was alive. However, it managed to survive for a mere 30 hours.

The baby was shifted to the neo-natal ICU after the family noticed it was alive. (File)

New Delhi: A premature baby declared 'stillborn' by doctors at Safdarjung Hospital in the national capital yesterday, but later found to be alive, died on Monday after struggling to survive for 30 hours. Medical superintendent at Safdarjung hospital Dr A K Rai confirmed the death of the baby.

The World Health Organisation says babies born before 22 weeks and weighing less than 500 gm are not considered deliveries and generally do not survive. "The woman had delivered a 22-week-old premature baby," Dr Rai was quoted as saying by news agency Press Trust of India.

The baby - born on Saturday - was found to be alive as the family was preparing it for burial. As the relatives decided to unwrap the plastic to take a final look, the baby was found moving and breathing.

He was then immediately shifted to the neo-natal Intensive Care Unit of the Safdarjung hospital. The furious family had accused the hospital of gross negligence. "How can they be so irresponsible and declare a baby, who is alive, as dead?" the father, Rohit, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Dr Rai had said an inquiry has been ordered into the matter. The baby, delivered by 28-year-old Shanti Devi, was motionless and did not cry or breathe after the delivery, he had added.

A complaint has been filed and will be forwarded to the Medical Council of India for fact-finding inquiry. A legal opinion will also be sought to decide what action needs to be taken on the matter, said a senior police officer.